Second Life offers an abundance of amazing locations for great shoots. Yet optimizing the lighting for an on-location shoot can be challenging, which is one reason why many SL photographers opt for studio shooting. I recently took Ananke Media Systems‘ PhotoLite toolkit to the beach to see how this highly versatile system can enhance the look of images you capture inworld.
This first photo shows our lovely model (none other than moi - of course!) posing on the beach with the existing night lighting. Nice location - what you can see of it!

Here’s the same location with lighting and effects added from the PhotoLite toolkit. I’ve used lights to brighten certain elements in the background (the pampas grass and palms) as well as the model (isn’t she gorgeous? — okay, I’ll stop). I’ve also added a very light mist with two effects generators to soften the reflected light from the sand and provide another colour detail.

After hiding all the lights, effect generators and the pose stand with a couple of quick clicks on the PhotoLite HUD or menus, the scene becomes a vivid yet still natural looking setting perfect for capturing the romance of LeeZu Baxter’s Noir line!

Moving in for a closer view, I made some minor adjustments in the positioning of the lights using the PhotoLite HUD - all without ever changing the camera frame! One of the beauties of AMS products is the ability to stay focussed on the specific camera angle you want while using the HUD, menu or chat controls to adjust lighting, effects and even the direction the model’s eyes are looking. (Click “More” to see the photo.) (more…)
17 July 2008
Welcome to the new look for the AMS website.
As announced in her recent post, Anna Tretiak has decided to leave AMS in order to pursue other RL interests. Her departure is amicable, yet necessary, and I’m sure all of you who know her in Second Life will join with me in wishing her the very best in her future endeavours.
While Anna’s involvement in the company will be missed, it would be wrong to think AMS is now under new management. Anna and I created our business together and I have been actively engaged in its operations from the very beginning. Please be assured that AMS will continue to provide high quality products and excellent customer service.
I hope you will like the fresh look of the new design scheme. All of the content from the old website is still here, and I will be continuing to update with new notices and information on a regular basis.
Serenity Mercier
Anna, Cantlos Point, 2 October 2007
3 July 2008
After six months running Ananke Media Systems, I am off. I am leaving the business. My partner Serenity Mercier will be taking over from now on.
Starting up and running AMS has been quite a ride. I have learned a lot, and made some money too. I would like to send a warm thank you to all our customers who have trusted us, and to all others who have liaised with us in so many ways.
For me, this is over. Goodbye. Hugs. Kisses. Some tears. And good luck to Serenity. You be nice to her.
1 July 2008
We are proud to accept Ewing Fashion Agency’s invitation to co-showcase our products at their booth in SL5B. Second Life turns 5, and we are there to celebrate.
There are two PhotoStages rezzed so you can try them out. Feel free to play with them.
See us at http://slurl.com/secondlife/SL5B Phantom/88/236/37!
25 June 2008